Description of the Problem

The class will be divided into two groups of about ten each.  A team leader will be elected by the end of the second group meeting.  All will contribute design plans by the required date.  Each group must produce two slingers, capable of sending an orange as far as possible by mechanical means.  No explosives, pneumatics, hydraulics, or combustion engines can be used.  Totally energy loading of the apparatus must occur in two minutes or less.  The rules for "Punkin' Chunkin', a national competition will apply - see their web site.  SAFETY IS THE PRIMARY CONCERN!  The event will occur on the last Monday of the Fall 2000 semester.

This project will test the following skills:

Planning and design
Drawing
Problem solving
Engineering materials use
Fabrication skills
Specifications and requesting materials
Procurement
Recycling of materials
Delegation of authority
Group process and negotiation
Written, verbal, and drawn communication
Data collection
Internet search skills
Scheduling and due date completion
Strength of materials
Applied physics
Creativity
Murphy's Law
Redesign and "tweaking"
Peer and group evaluation
Socialization and teaming skills